General English and Intensive English

General English Course (15 hours per week)

Our course helps you improve all aspects of your English, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. You will also learn more about grammar and vocabulary to help you communicate confidently in everyday situations.

Our highly qualified teaching team receives consistently excellent feedback and teaches in a friendly and engaging manner. They will support you in reaching your goals and making progress.

Before your course begins, you will take a placement test to determine the appropriate class for your level. Your teacher will check your progress regularly using project presentations, course tests and homework. You will have opportunities to speak to your teachers 1:1 about your progress and learning goals. 

Your teacher will expect you to participate in all class activities by giving opinions and ideas and by listening to others. Throughout your course, you will have the opportunity to choose projects and topics that are relevant and interesting to you. 

You will have opportunities to provide feedback and input on what you would like to learn. 

What You Can Expect: 

• 15 hours of General English classes in an immersive English language environment. 
• Improve practical and useful language skills, not just grammar and vocabulary. 
• Work on projects that help you learn about the local community and develop teamwork skills. 
• Focus on real-life communication instead of traditional exercises. 
• Understand your strengths and areas for improvement. 
• Set personal goals and track your progress. 

How You Will Learn

You will learn in various ways, including whole-class activities, small-group work, and pair work. Your teacher will encourage you to take part by sharing your ideas and listening to others. You can also choose topics and projects that interest you. 

Intensive English (20 hours per week)

We know that every student has different learning needs. Our Intensive English course lets you choose from a range of modules each month, so you can focus on the skills that are most important to you.  

Please note that modules may be adjusted according to student interest and availability.  

What You Can Expect

• 15 hours of General English classes in an immersive English language environment.
• Extra 5 hours of Intensive English classes each week to help you learn faster. 
• Practical tasks that use real-world English. 
• English skills that can help you in your studies or future career. 
• More confidence in using English in everyday situations. 
• Improved natural communication in English. 
• Skills and project-based opportunities for learning.
• Regular assessments to track your progress. 

Intensive English Course Options

• IELTS Preparation B1+: Prepare to take an IELTS examination in the future. An overview of the reading and writing components of the exam, the strategies needed for the question types and tasks, and a close look at vocabulary. 
• Academic Writing for Higher Education B2+: Prepare for further study at the college or university level. Develop critical analysis skills and writing structure. 
• English and UK Culture A1-C1: Learn more about the UK and Scottish language and culture, focusing on local customs, dialects and regional slang. 
• English for Business A2-C1: Learn key phrases, concepts and communication styles to help you with future studies in Business subjects and skills for your future career. 
• English for Tourism A1-C1: Learn key phrases, concepts and communication styles to help you with future studies in Tourism and Travel subjects and skills for your future career. 
• Presentation Skills A2-C1: Learn to create successful presentations and gain confidence to speak in front of an audience. 

If you have any questions or need help with your application, please email summerschool@edinburghcollege.ac.uk

Example timetable 

Morning classes include a 30-minute break. Afternoon classes include a 15-minute break.